Albuterol 2mg Tablets
It is used to open the airways in lung diseases where spasm may cause breathing problems.
Drug Class
Bronchodilator
Pharmacologic Class
Selective beta-2 adrenergic agonist
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Aug 1981
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Albuterol tablets are a medicine used to help open up the airways in your lungs, making it easier to breathe. It's often prescribed for conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to prevent or relieve wheezing and shortness of breath.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. You can take this medication with or without food.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature, protected from light, and in a dry place. Avoid storing it in a bathroom. Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets. When disposing of unused or expired medication, do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist for guidance on the best disposal method. You may also want to check if there are drug take-back programs available in your area.
Missing a Dose
If you take this medication regularly, take a missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses. If you use this medication as needed, do not take it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. You can take this medication with or without food.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature, protected from light, and in a dry place. Avoid storing it in a bathroom. Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets. When disposing of unused or expired medication, do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist for guidance on the best disposal method. You may also want to check if there are drug take-back programs available in your area.
Missing a Dose
If you take this medication regularly, take a missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses. If you use this medication as needed, do not take it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take exactly as prescribed; do not take more often or in larger doses than recommended.
- Do not use for acute, sudden breathing problems; it is for maintenance therapy.
- Avoid known triggers for your breathing condition (e.g., allergens, smoke).
- Report any worsening of breathing symptoms or increased need for medication to your doctor.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Albuterol 2mg Tablets
- Albuterol 4mg Tablets
- Albuterol 0.5% Conc(2.5mg/0.5ml)
- Albuterol 0.021%(0.63mg/3ml) 30x3ml
- Albuterol 0.083%(2.5mg/3ml) 25x3ml
- Albuterol 0.083%(2.5mg/3ml) Inh Sol
- Albuterol 0.083%(2.5mg/3ml) 30x3ml
- Albuterol Sulfate 2mg Tablets
- Albuterol Sulfate 4mg Tablets
- Albuterol HFA Inh (200 Puffs) 18gm
- Albuterol HFA Inh (200 Puffs) 8.5gm
- Albuterol Sulfate Syrup (2mg/5ml)
- Albuterol Sulfate 2mg Tablets
- Albuterol Sulfate 4mg Tablets
- Albuterol HFA Inh (200 Puffs) 6.7gm
- Albuterol 0.083%(2.5mg/3ml) Inh Sol
- Albuterol 0.021%(0.63mg/3ml) 25x3ml
- Albuterol 0.042%(1.25mg/3ml) 25x3ml
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
2 mg to 4 mg, 3 or 4 times daily
Dose Range:
2 - 8 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
elderly_sensitive_patients:
Initial dose 2 mg, 3 or 4 times daily, then cautiously increase.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
Not established
Child:
6-12 years: 2 mg, 3 or 4 times daily. May cautiously increase to 4 mg, 3 or 4 times daily if needed and tolerated.
Adolescent:
Over 12 years: Adult dose (2 mg to 4 mg, 3 or 4 times daily).
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Use with caution, dose reduction may be necessary due to primary renal excretion.
Moderate:
Use with caution, dose reduction may be necessary due to primary renal excretion.
Severe:
Use with caution, dose reduction may be necessary due to primary renal excretion.
Dialysis:
Not specifically studied; consider reduced dose and monitor for adverse effects.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific dose adjustment guidelines, use with caution.
Moderate:
No specific dose adjustment guidelines, use with caution.
Severe:
No specific dose adjustment guidelines, use with caution.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Albuterol selectively stimulates beta-2 adrenergic receptors in bronchial smooth muscle, leading to activation of adenyl cyclase and increased intracellular cyclic-3',5'-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). This increase in cAMP causes relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle, inhibition of mediator release from mast cells, and bronchodilation.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Approximately 50% (oral)
Tmax:
2-3 hours
FoodEffect:
Food may delay absorption but does not significantly affect the extent of absorption.
Distribution:
Vd:
Approximately 3.1 L/kg
ProteinBinding:
10%
CnssPenetration:
Limited
Elimination:
HalfLife:
4-6 hours (oral)
Clearance:
Not readily available as a single rate; primarily renal excretion.
ExcretionRoute:
Urine (80-100% of dose within 72 hours)
Unchanged:
Approximately 60% of an oral dose is excreted unchanged in urine.
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within 30 minutes (oral)
PeakEffect:
2-3 hours
DurationOfAction:
4-6 hours
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Immediately
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention right away:
Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood pressure: severe headache, dizziness, fainting, or changes in vision
Signs of low potassium levels: muscle pain or weakness, muscle cramps, or an irregular heartbeat
Signs of a severe skin reaction (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, erythema multiforme): red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), ring-shaped skin lesions, red or irritated eyes, or sores in the mouth, throat, nose, or eyes
Chest pain or pressure, rapid heartbeat, or abnormal heartbeat
This medication may cause severe breathing problems, which can be life-threatening. If you experience trouble breathing, worsening breathing, wheezing, or coughing, especially after using an inhaler or liquid for breathing in, seek medical help immediately. This is more likely to occur after the first use of a new canister or vial of this medication.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Many people may not experience any side effects or may only have mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor or seek medical attention:
Feeling nervous or excitable
Dizziness or headache
Upset stomach or vomiting
* Shakiness
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention right away:
Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood pressure: severe headache, dizziness, fainting, or changes in vision
Signs of low potassium levels: muscle pain or weakness, muscle cramps, or an irregular heartbeat
Signs of a severe skin reaction (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, erythema multiforme): red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), ring-shaped skin lesions, red or irritated eyes, or sores in the mouth, throat, nose, or eyes
Chest pain or pressure, rapid heartbeat, or abnormal heartbeat
This medication may cause severe breathing problems, which can be life-threatening. If you experience trouble breathing, worsening breathing, wheezing, or coughing, especially after using an inhaler or liquid for breathing in, seek medical help immediately. This is more likely to occur after the first use of a new canister or vial of this medication.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Many people may not experience any side effects or may only have mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor or seek medical attention:
Feeling nervous or excitable
Dizziness or headache
Upset stomach or vomiting
* Shakiness
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Worsening of breathing problems or asthma attacks
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Severe or persistent tremor or nervousness
- Fast or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, any of its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
If you are currently taking another medication similar to this one. If you are unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist to determine if the medications are similar.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to disclose all of your medications, including:
Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Natural products
* Vitamins
Additionally, inform your doctor about any existing health problems. This information will help your doctor determine if it is safe for you to take this medication in conjunction with your other medications and health conditions.
Remember, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to ensure your safety.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, any of its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
If you are currently taking another medication similar to this one. If you are unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist to determine if the medications are similar.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to disclose all of your medications, including:
Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Natural products
* Vitamins
Additionally, inform your doctor about any existing health problems. This information will help your doctor determine if it is safe for you to take this medication in conjunction with your other medications and health conditions.
Remember, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to ensure your safety.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Adhering to the prescribed dosage and usage schedule is crucial, as taking more of this drug or using it more frequently than directed can be fatal. If you have any concerns or questions, consult your doctor.
If you find that your usual dose is no longer effective, your symptoms are worsening, or you need to use this medication more often than prescribed, contact your doctor immediately.
If you have diabetes (high blood sugar), it is vital to closely monitor your blood sugar levels while taking this medication.
Before taking this medication, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. Your doctor will discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby, allowing you to make an informed decision.
If you find that your usual dose is no longer effective, your symptoms are worsening, or you need to use this medication more often than prescribed, contact your doctor immediately.
If you have diabetes (high blood sugar), it is vital to closely monitor your blood sugar levels while taking this medication.
Before taking this medication, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. Your doctor will discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby, allowing you to make an informed decision.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Tachycardia (fast heart rate)
- Palpitations
- Tremor
- Nervousness
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Hypokalemia (low potassium)
- Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
- Metabolic acidosis
What to Do:
Seek immediate medical attention or call a poison control center (e.g., 1-800-222-1222). Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.
Drug Interactions
Major Interactions
- Non-selective beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol): May block the bronchodilatory effect of albuterol and produce severe bronchospasm.
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) and Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): May potentiate the cardiovascular effects of albuterol.
Moderate Interactions
- Diuretics (e.g., loop or thiazide diuretics): May exacerbate ECG changes and/or hypokalemia induced by beta-agonists.
- Digoxin: Albuterol may decrease serum digoxin levels.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Pulmonary Function Tests (e.g., FEV1)
Rationale: To assess baseline lung function and severity of airway obstruction.
Timing: Before initiating therapy.
Serum Potassium
Rationale: To establish baseline, especially in patients at risk for hypokalemia (e.g., on diuretics).
Timing: Before initiating therapy.
Heart Rate and Rhythm
Rationale: To assess baseline cardiovascular status.
Timing: Before initiating therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Symptoms of Bronchospasm (e.g., wheezing, shortness of breath)
Frequency: Daily (patient self-monitoring)
Target: Improvement or stability of symptoms
Action Threshold: Worsening symptoms, increased frequency of use, or lack of response may indicate need for re-evaluation.
Serum Potassium
Frequency: Periodically, especially if on concomitant diuretics or with high doses.
Target: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L
Action Threshold: <3.5 mEq/L (consider supplementation or dose adjustment).
Heart Rate and Blood Pressure
Frequency: Periodically, or if patient reports palpitations/tremor.
Target: Within normal limits for patient
Action Threshold: Persistent tachycardia, palpitations, or significant hypertension.
Symptom Monitoring
- Worsening shortness of breath
- Increased wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Palpitations
- Tremor
- Nervousness
- Dizziness
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Albuterol has been shown to be teratogenic in animal studies at high doses.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential for teratogenicity observed in animal studies at high doses; human data limited.
Second Trimester:
No specific increased risks identified beyond general Category C considerations.
Third Trimester:
May inhibit uterine contractions; caution near term. Transient hyperglycemia and tachycardia in the neonate have been reported with maternal use of beta-agonists.
Lactation
L3 (Moderately safe). Albuterol is excreted into breast milk. Use with caution. Monitor breastfed infant for signs of adverse effects (e.g., irritability, tremor, tachycardia).
Infant Risk:
Low to moderate risk. Potential for mild beta-adrenergic effects in the infant, though systemic absorption from milk is likely low.
Pediatric Use
Dosing established for children 6 years and older. Oral albuterol is generally not preferred over inhaled forms due to higher systemic side effects. Close monitoring for adverse effects is crucial.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of sympathomimetic amines, particularly cardiovascular effects (e.g., tachycardia, arrhythmias, hypertension) and CNS effects (e.g., tremor, nervousness). Start with the lowest effective dose (e.g., 2 mg three or four times daily) and titrate cautiously.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Oral albuterol tablets have a slower onset of action and a higher incidence of systemic side effects (e.g., tremor, tachycardia, nervousness) compared to inhaled albuterol. Therefore, inhaled albuterol is generally preferred for acute bronchospasm and maintenance therapy.
- Oral albuterol is NOT indicated for the relief of acute bronchospasm or for acute exacerbations of asthma or COPD. It is intended for maintenance treatment.
- Patients should be educated on the difference between oral and inhaled albuterol and when to use each form (if prescribed both).
- Monitor for hypokalemia, especially in patients on concomitant diuretics or corticosteroids.
Alternative Therapies
- Inhaled short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) (e.g., albuterol inhaler, levalbuterol inhaler)
- Inhaled long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) (e.g., salmeterol, formoterol)
- Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) (e.g., fluticasone, budesonide)
- Long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs) (e.g., tiotropium)
- Oral corticosteroids (for acute exacerbations)
- Leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., montelukast)
- Methylxanthines (e.g., theophylline)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$10 - $30 per 30 tablets (generic)
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or Tier 2 (most insurance plans)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it happened.